Seven associates at The MarketPlace have been selected to participate in Pathways to Leadership, the organisation’s leadership and development programme.

The second cohort of the programme includes Janita Perinchief, Patricia Woods, Zoila Johnston, Ciara Correia, Brittney Sewell, David Hill and Gerald Bean.

The programme is designed to prepare willing and motivated employees to fill leadership positions within The MarketPlace group of stores.

The organisation said the initiative is part of its commitment to grow and foster local talent for leadership positions and is available to current Bermudian or the spouses of Bermudian associates.

The future leaders will have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from skilled grocery managers with vast experience working in both local and overseas supermarkets and retail stores, while gaining experience across a range of store areas.

Personalised leadership pathways will be created for each associate based on their prior experience and interests.

Seth Stutzman, president of The MarketPlace group of stores, said: "This programme represents a unique opportunity for our associates who aspire to leadership roles and career advancement, within the grocery and retail industry.

“We are delighted to reinforce our commitment to supporting and cultivating our home grown talent. We wish our associates every success.”

Shahidah Shamsid-Deen, training manager, added: "Pathways to Leadership allows The MarketPlace to identify and train future leaders while maintaining our commitment to community values.

“We are confident that the new group of future leaders will build on the hard-work and effort produced by the inaugural group and succeed in their leadership roles."